35984, Mentone, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35984, Mentone, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 35984 has some form of health insurance. 42.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.09 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 35984 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 96 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35984. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 699 health care providers accessible to residents in 35984, Mentone, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score: Mentone, AL (ZIP Code 35984) - An Analysis

The health landscape of Mentone, Alabama (ZIP Code 35984), presents a unique profile when considering lung cancer care and primary care access. This analysis, aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the resources dedicated to lung cancer detection and treatment, and the overall support system for patients within this specific geographic area. The goal is to assess the community's preparedness to combat lung cancer, a disease significantly impacted by early detection and comprehensive care.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a critical role in screening, early detection, and referral. In Mentone, determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. While publicly available data provides general estimates, a granular analysis requires accessing databases like the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and cross-referencing with population figures specific to the ZIP code. This data would reveal the density of PCPs, highlighting potential shortages or surpluses. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, could negatively impact the "Lung Cancer Score" due to potential delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Assessing the practices within Mentone involves looking at their adherence to recommended lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers or former smokers). Do these practices proactively offer low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the gold standard for early detection? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? The presence of these elements significantly elevates the "Lung Cancer Score."

Standout practices in Mentone, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive patient care. This includes offering extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments to facilitate access. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient education, providing information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and screening options, contribute positively to the score. Practices integrating electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient data and facilitate communication between specialists also represent best practices.

Telemedicine adoption presents another important factor. Telemedicine, the practice of medicine using technology to deliver care remotely, offers a potential solution to geographic barriers, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists in Mentone can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those residing in remote locations. The "Lung Cancer Score" benefits from practices actively utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is critical for patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the presence of mental health professionals, either within primary care practices or through external referrals. Practices collaborating with mental health specialists and offering integrated care demonstrate a higher commitment to patient-centered care, thus improving the score.

Further, the analysis should include an evaluation of local hospital facilities. Do hospitals in or near Mentone offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy? The proximity and accessibility of these services are critical for patients. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer center, with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, would significantly enhance the "Lung Cancer Score."

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations also plays a crucial role. These organizations provide emotional support, education, and resources for patients and their families. Their presence within the community, or easy access to them, is a positive indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a dynamic assessment, constantly evolving based on changes in healthcare infrastructure, physician availability, and the adoption of new technologies and treatment modalities. The score is not simply a numerical value but a reflection of the community's commitment to early detection, comprehensive treatment, and holistic patient care.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" for Mentone, AL (ZIP Code 35984) requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized treatment facilities. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape in relation to lung cancer care. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of this devastating disease.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mentone, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, offering valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care in your community.